Truck Driver Essentials

When on the road, there are a number of truck driving essentials that you should remember to pack. More experienced drivers will understand the essentials much more, however, essentials for new truck drivers might not seem as obvious.

From first aid kits, to food, drinks and maps, here we go through a variety of lorry driver essentials to ensure that you’re prepared whilst driving your HGV.

First Aid Kits

First aid kits are a legal requirement and must be stored within your truck whilst working. This piece of equipment can be very beneficial in case of injury, so you’ll be prepared to deal with any wounds or injuries that you may sustain and is absolutely essential for truck drivers. First aid kits will often include dressing pads, a pair of scissors, plasters and a first aid booklet.

Maps

Maps are a fairly obvious truck driving essential as they can play a key role in you arriving at your desired destination on time. This lorry driving essential can help you to navigate through unfamiliar territory and show any alternative routes you may need to take in case of road closures or accidents for example.

Sat-navs have become much more common within the industry as they offer very simple solutions and can be much easier to use compared to maps, however there is always the potential for some of this technology to be faulty, so it is always handy to keep a map by your side just in case.

Water and Food

Make sure that your cab is fully stocked up with plenty of food and water so that you won’t have to worry about making stops. Keeping essentials such as food and water in your cab will help to keep you energised throughout your journey, so you won’t have to worry about being dehydrated or going hungry whilst on the road.

If you’re working longer hours, it might be worth packing equipment so that you can prepare yourself some hot food, such as a kettle and any other suitable portable cooking equipment.

Road Safety Equipment

The road can be very unpredictable, and situations can change within an instant. From road accidents to your vehicle breaking down, you must ensure that road safety equipment is packed, including hi vis jackets and cones.

Road safety equipment is an essential as they can make other drivers aware of your whereabouts, giving them plenty of notice if your HGV is stationary in the middle of the road. High visibility clothing can also capture nearby attention if you’re in need of help, so ensure that this lorry driving essential is stored in your cab.

Self-Hygiene Equipment

Taking care of yourself whilst working is an essential within itself, so that is why you must remember to pack all of the self-hygiene basics. Tooth brush, toothpaste, tissues, wipes and towels should all be included within your cab to keep yourself clean and sanitised.

Spare clothing would also be a good idea, so that you’re not wearing the same outfit all the time, allowing you to freshen yourself up every once in a while.

Charging Equipment

Electrical devices that you may be taking, such as phones, tablets or computers for example won’t be able to last forever. If you’re planning on entertaining yourself, ensure that you pack plenty of chargers and power banks to keep all of your electronics fully charged up throughout the night and during the day time so that you have a method of entertainment whilst on your breaks.

Get in touch with FleetEx

The number one trucking essential is the truck itself! If you’re looking to add high quality trucks to your fleet, then you browse our extensive stock of HGVs here on our website today, and if you require any additional information, feel free to get in touch with our team today.